(A bell rings loudly.)
Mrs. Popov. (Shudders) What's that? I am at home to no one.
Luka. Yes, ma'am. (He goes out, Center)
Mrs. Popov. (Gazing at the photograph) You shall see, Nikolai, how I can love and forgive! My love will die only with me—when my poor heart stops beating. (She smiles through her tears) And aren't you ashamed? I have been a good, true wife, I have imprisoned myself and I shall remain true until death, and you—you—you're not ashamed of yourself, my dear monster! You quarrelled with me, left me alone for weeks
(Luka enters in great excitement.)
Luka. Oh, ma'am, someone is asking for you, insists on seeing you
Mrs. Popov. You told him that since my husband's death I receive no one?
Luka. I said so, but he won't listen, he says it is a pressing matter.
Mrs. Popov. I receive no one!
Luka. I told him that, but he's a wildman, he swore and pushed himself into the room; he's in the dining-room now.
Mrs. Popov. (Excitedly) Good. Show him in. The impudent—!
(Luka goes out, Center.)
Mrs. Popov. What a bore people are! What can they want with me? Why do they disturb my peace? {She sighs) Yes, it is clear I must enter a convent. (Meditatively) Yes, a convent.
(Smirnov enters, followed by Luka.)
Smirnov. (To Luka) Fool, you make too
